Bob Udell

Bob Udell

Comment

Ridgecrest Daily Independent - Ridgecrest, CA

Writer

Posted Jul. 13, 2013 at 4:16 PM
Updated Jul 13, 2013 at 4:18 PM

Posted Jul. 13, 2013 at 4:16 PM
Updated Jul 13, 2013 at 4:18 PM

Bob was born in Pasadena, Ca. to Vernon and Berniece Udell. Bob was later raised by his mother and step-dad Joseph Hubbard of Kentucky. Bob went to Torrance High school and soon thereafter moved to China Lake, Ca to secure a job as a journeyman with the Civil Service. In 1963 he became owner/operator of Trader Mays Lounge in Ridgecrest, Ca. In July of 1965, he went back to work for the Naval Weapons Center at China Lake in the Public Works Dept. as a pipe-ﬁtter/insulator. He retired in 1984.

Bob met Gladys Buchanan in 1975 and they were married a year later. They moved to Vinita, Ok in 1984 to help with Bob's mother who became ill. Bob spent a few years working with the Indian Med-support as a driver getting patients to doctor appointments. They were both active and Life Members of the Elks and the American Legion. They participated in many Christmases as "Mr. And Mrs. Claus" bringing smiles to many, young and old. Bob enjoyed gemstones and lapidary as a hobby.

Bob is preceded in death by his brother Donald A. Udell. He is survived by his wife Gladys Udell of Vinita, his sister Laura Broaderick of OK, his brother James E. Udell of CA, his sister Wanda J. Jarzomkowski of KY, his son Robert A. Udell of OR, and three grandchildren.

He is also survived by step-children, Vivian Steinhardt of IL, Cathy Morgan of FL, Gwen Carmichael of TX, Barbara Whitney of CA, and Lyman Funkey of CA. and six grand-children.

Bob was cremated shortly after his death in June. A memorial service will be held on Saturday July 20th at 1:00 p.m. at Kelso Faith Baptist Church in Vinita. (North on Wilson, near McDonalds- 5 miles-Highway 2)

Condolences may be offered by contacting Barbara Whitney at bjwsparky@gmail.com